Teresa Lee Barnes

Teresa Lee (Liggett) Barnes, a cherished soul whose life was marked by love, faith, and a passion for the great outdoors, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family on June 7, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on November 23, 1946, to the late Marvin and Mary (Bierczak) Liggett, Teresa's journey was one of joy, adventure, and enduring relationships.
Teresa's early life in Niles set a strong foundation for the woman she would become. Her heart found its first match in William Edmonds, with whom she shared a loving marriage until his passing. Fate had a second chapter in store for Teresa when she met and married Joel Barnes on April 25, 1992. Their union was a testament to the beauty of love rediscovered.
A dedicated professional, Teresa served as a department head in retail for many years, leaving a legacy of hard work and exemplary leadership. Her spirit of adventure led her to work beside her husband, Joel, at Yellowstone National Park, a place that reflected her love for nature and the beauty of the American landscape.
Teresa's family was her pride and joy. She was a loving mother to David (Carol Ann) Edmonds and a cherished stepmother to Laura (David) Gabriel and Jennifer (Vern) Morse. Her role as a grandmother to Eric Edmonds and Megan Morse brought her immense happiness. Teresa was a beloved sister to Douglas (Sydney) Liggett and Anita Gaut, Marsha Bonner and she fondly remembered her brother Marvin Liggett Jr., who predeceased her.
For 17 years, Teresa and Joel traversed the country in their travel trailer, embracing the thrill of discovery and the serenity of nature. Their Alaskan cruise was among the many highlights, a memory etched in the beauty of glacial landscapes and shared laughter. Teresa's love for hiking was matched only by her avid reading, which allowed her to explore worlds beyond even the vast horizons she so loved to travel.
Teresa's life was a reflection of her loving nature and deep faith. She navigated life's challenges with grace and found strength in her beliefs. Her impact on those around her was profound, and her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Condolences, photos, and memories can be left for Teresa's family at BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com
In lieu of flowers those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Teresa have been asked to consider Hope Community Church Building Project, 2390 Lake Street, Niles, MI 49120
Funeral services for Teresa will take place Friday, June 13, 2025 beginning at 11:00 a.m. with an hour of visitation prior at Hope Community Church.
As Teresa's journey on this earth concludes, we remember a woman whose life was well-lived and well-loved. Her legacy of kindness, adventure, and unwavering love for her family will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. Teresa Lee (Liggett) Barnes will be dearly missed, but her spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the lives of those she touched.